Endodontic post and obturating system

ABSTRACT

An endodontic post comprises a combined endodontic post and tip of filling material such as thermoplastic material in a single unit. Obuturating systems are provided by an endodontic carrier and attached filling material. The post and obturator include a protrusion or depression on the tip section of the device for better attachment of the filling material to the device. Alternatively the post and obuturator are fabricated of a tube having a tunnel extending therethrough into which filling material is injected. The filling material extends out of the apical section of the post and obturator to form a filler cone.

Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 10/164,512, filed Jun. 6, 2002, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/684,493,filed Oct. 6, 2000, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/571,040, filed May 12, 2000, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/133,733, filed May 12,1999, which are all incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to both the obturation of a root canalhaving undergone endodontic treatment and the simultaneous placement ofan endodontic post system or filling material.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Endodontics or root canal therapy is that branch of dentistrythat deals with the diseases of the dental pulp and associated tissues.One aspect of endodontics comprises the treatment of infected rootcanals, the removal of diseased pulp tissues, followed by thebiomechanical modification and the subsequent filling of the pulp canal(root canal). Root canal therapy is generally indicated for teeth havingsound external structures but having diseased, dead or dying pulptissues. Such teeth may or may not generally possess intact enamel anddentin and are satisfactorily engaged with bony tissue. In such teeth,the pulp tissue and excised portions of the root should be replaced by abiocompatible substitute.

[0004] One technique for the preparation of a root canal involvescreating a coronal access opening with a conventional dental drill. Atool is used for gross removal of pulp material from the root canalthrough the coronal access opening. The void formed is enlarged withreamers and/or files to result in a fully excavated cavity. Debris isremoved from this cavity by flushing and the cavity is cleansed toremove all diseased tissue. Following chemical antisepsis, the excavatedcanal is ready for filling.

[0005] A basic method involves inserting a filling cone into a rootcanal and cementing therein to obturate the canal. Lateral condensationis a method in which several filling cones, a primary cone and auxiliarycones, are inserted into a root canal. The primary cone is inserted andcemented to the seat of the root canal. Using a tapered spreader, theprimary cone is then squeezed against the side of the root canal and asecond cone is inserted and cemented into place. This process iscontinued until the root canal is completely obturated which can requireup to 10 to 15 filling cones. Vertical condensation of warm or hot guttapercha is yet another method of sealing root canals. After cementing aprimary cone short of the apex of the root canal, heat application isalternated with a series of smaller and smaller pluggers until the guttapercha is moved to the apex. This is often possible when the smallestplugger approaches the apex of the tooth within 3 to 5 millimeters. Thespace is then backfilled. Lateral canals are packed and sealed as aconsequence of lateral expansion of a wave of heated gutta percha.Alternatively, small segments of gutta percha can be used in this methodthat are inserted into the root canal, heated in order they can adhereto one another and each backfilled one at a time until the root canal isfilled. All three of these methods, the single filling cone, lateralcondensation and vertical condensation apply root canal cement or sealeraround the individual cones or in between segments as a binding agent.

[0006] Another method employs an injection gun that injects warm or hotgutta percha filling material into a root canal. The injector initiallyplaces heated gutta percha at the seat of the root canal which is thencondensed with a plugger into the root tip. The injector then backfillsthe root canal by injecting additional gutta percha into the root canaluntil it is obturated. A similar method involves heating gutta percha ona flexible metal carrier used to insert the gutta percha into the rootcanal. The carrier may be a solid rod, or a hollow rod, situated in thecenter of a master cone. The rod is connected to a handle which may beremoved by slipping it out of the hollow rod, or cutting it off if it isa solid rod. While these systems provide for convenient and quickobturation of the canal, they pose a removal problem for the dentist whohas to place a post.

[0007] Of all the methods used for obturating a canal, there is nodevice currently available that will allow a doctor to simultaneouslyobturate a root canal and place an endodontic post.

[0008] Currently, an endodontist will perform the root canal procedureand the obturation during one patient visit. After the canal isobturated and temporarily sealed, the patient is frequently treated by asecond dentist who will place the post. To do so, the gutta percha hasto be removed from the canal until only a portion 5 mm or so from theapex remains to act as an apical seal. The rods inside the currentsystems make gutta percha removal much more difficult since the coronalportion of the gutta percha rod has to be removed to allow for theplacement of the endodontic post. One way to overcome this problem hasbeen to notch the obturating rod with a bur. Then, when the obturator isplaced in the canal it is twisted, snapping off the apical portion. Thelonger coronal portion is removed. It is then re-introduced into thecanal and the gutta percha is stripped off by means of pulling the rodthrough an endodontic stop. Since the endodontic stop is extremelynarrow, the gutta percha is pulled from the rod as it is withdrawn andthe gutta percha remains in the canal. It is subsequently condensed. Asa result of this technique, the restoring dentist does not have to dealwith the rod and only has to remove the gutta percha to make room forthe post. Some gutta percha may remain on the walls of the canaljeopardizing the bond strength of the post the radicular dentin.Reinfection of the treated tooth can be a problem because theendodontist performing the root canal procedure will seal the coronalopening with a temporary stopping agent which can leak oral fluidscarrying bacterial into the canal opening.

[0009] It is desirable to reduce the steps and time involved inperforming obturation and placement of a post in a root canal. It wouldbe beneficial to limit the obturation and post placement to a singlevisit to the dentist or prosthodontist. It is advantageous to reduceand/or eliminate the leakage problems associated with poor sealing atthe coronal end of the canal.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] These and other objects and advantages are accomplished by theendodontic post of the present invention comprising a combinedendodontic post and tip of filling material such as thermoplasticmaterial in a single unit. Obuturating systems are provided by anendodontic carrier and attached filling material. To use the post unit,the tip of the device may be softened by placing in an oven or heater toheat and soften the filling material or chemically treating to softenthe material. The device will then be placed in a root canal that hasbeen opened to a predetermined dimension by use of endodontic files, toseal the apical end. If necessary, the gutta percha can be compactedtoward the apex, while it is still in the softened state, to ensure theapex is adequately sealed. The post may then be cemented into place bylining the canal walls with a bonding agent and filling the interfacebetween the post and the walls of the canal with a resin cement such asa dual cure cement, a light cure cement or a self cure cement such asLute-It® dual cure luting cement or Cement-It® Universal cement, bothavailable from Pentron Clinical Technologies, LLC, in Wallingford, Conn.This will result in a coronal seal of the canal via resin restorativematerial and an apical seal of the canal by means of gutta percha andsealant. The remaining portion of the post, extending supra-gingivally,will be used to build a core around it. Any excess will be cut off. Onelength of the device will be longer to accommodate the longer roots inanterior teeth. Another length will be shorter to accommodate smallerroots in the molar region. Various diameters may also be provided toaccommodate the different sizes of root canals. The bonded flexible postmay strengthen the tooth to prevent subsequent root fractures.

[0012] In another embodiment herein, the post and obturator include aprotrusion or depression on the tip section of the device for betterattachment of the filling material to the device.

[0013] In yet another embodiment, the post and obturator are fabricatedof a shaft or carrier having an opening extending therethrough intowhich filling material is injected. The filling material extends out ofthe apical section of the post and obturator to form a filler cone.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Features of the present invention are disclosed in theaccompanying drawings, wherein similar reference characters denotesimilar elements throughout the several views, and wherein:

[0015]FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a post in accordance with theinvention;

[0016]FIG. 2 is an elevational view of a post with an alternate carrierin accordance with the invention;

[0017]FIG. 3 is a sectional view of a tooth showing a post of theinvention placed in the root canal;

[0018]FIG. 4 is an elevational view of an alternate embodiment of a postin accordance with the invention;

[0019]FIG. 5 is an elevational view of an alternate embodiment of a postin accordance with the invention;

[0020]FIG. 6 is an elevational view of an alternate embodiment of a postin accordance with the invention;

[0021]FIG. 7 is an elevational view of an obturator in accordance withthe invention;

[0022]FIG. 8 is an elevational view of an obturator in accordance withthe invention;

[0023]FIG. 9 is an elevational view of an obturator in accordance withthe invention;

[0024]FIG. 10 is an elevational view of an obturator in accordance withthe invention;

[0025]FIG. 11 is an elevational view of an obturator in accordance withthe invention;

[0026]FIG. 12 is an elevational view of a post in accordance with theinvention;

[0027]FIG. 13 is an elevational view of a post in accordance with theinvention;

[0028]FIG. 14 is an elevational view of a post in accordance with theinvention;

[0029]FIG. 15 is a top plan view of FIG. 12;

[0030]FIG. 16 is an elevational view of an obturator in accordance withthe invention;

[0031]FIG. 17 is an elevational view of an obturator in accordance withthe invention;

[0032]FIG. 18 is a top plan view of FIG. 16;

[0033]FIG. 19 is an elevational view of a post in accordance with theinvention;

[0034]FIG. 20 is an elevational view of a post in accordance with theinvention; and

[0035]FIG. 21 is an elevational view of an obturator in accordance withthe invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] As will be appreciated, the present invention provides acombination endodontic post and filler cone in a single unit. Referenceis made to FIGS. 1 and 2 which show a post unit 10 comprising a postsection 11 and a cone or tip section 14. Tip section 14 comprises aflexible rod or cone of biocompatible material for filling the apex ofthe canal. The filling material is typically a thermoplastic,chemo-plastic (i.e., may be softened by chemicals), resinous or similarpolymeric material, such as gutta percha and is attached to post section11 at the apical end 10 a. Other examples of thermoplastic materialsinclude but are not limited to HEMA methacrylate, polyurethane,polypropylene and polyethylene.

[0037] The filling material may include additives typical in the dentalfield such as plasticizing, antibiotic, cariostatic, antibacterial, orother anti-inflammatory, biologically active or therapeutic materials.

[0038] Post section 11 comprises a main body or endodontic portion 12and a carrier or apical portion 13 which is located at the apical end 10a of post unit 10. Main body 12 may be a solid rod of circular or othersuitable cross-section comprising a substantially smooth surface or maycomprise a plurality of frustoconical sections 16 arranged coaxiallyalong the longitudinal axis of main body 12. Preferably, main body 12has consistent width along the longitudinal axis thereof whereasfrustoconical sections 16 each have the same tapered width and samelength. It is possible to vary the width and/or length of main body 12and/or vary the tapered width and/or length of frustoconical sections 16along the longitudinal axis of main body 12. Main body 12 may include alarger head of any shape with or without a retentive design to providesupport for a core thereon at the supracoronal end 12 h as will bediscussed hereinafter.

[0039] Carrier 13 is preferably an extension of main body 12 of postsection 11 and is of very fine diameter to accommodate tip section 14 ofthermoplastic material of post unit 10. In one method of manufacturewhich will be discussed hereinafter, post section 11 is manufacturedfrom a rod of material that is cut or machined at the apical end 10 a toresult in carrier 13 having a very small width or diameter in comparisonto main body 12. Carrier 13 is of small diameter to allow enough area toform tip section 14 thereon, and also of enough strength and integrityto accommodate the filling material such as a thermoplastic material. Asstated above, carrier 13 is preferably an extension of main body 12 andis shown having constant diameter along the length thereof, but may beof any shape or size sufficient to hold tip section 14 thereon. FIG. 2shows an alternative carrier 13 of tapered diameter.

[0040] Post section 11 may be fabricated of any material to provide aflexible apical portion and a more rigid endodontic and/or coronal orsupracoronal portion, such as metal, plastic, ceramic, polymeric,composite, or other material suitable for placement in the mouth.Composite materials include but are not limited to filler reinforcedcomposite materials and fiber reinforced composite materials comprisingthe reinforcing component in a polymeric matrix material such as thosecomposite materials listed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,717,341 and 4,894,012 toGoldberg et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,039,569 to Prasad et al., U.S. Pat. No.6,030,220 to Karmaker et al, U.S. Pat. No. 5,564,929 to Alpert, and U.S.Pat. No. 5,919,044 to Sicurelli, Jr. et al., all of which are herebyincorporated by reference. The fiber reinforced composite material maycomprise fibers in the form of long, unidirectional, continuousfilaments which are preferably at least partially aligned and orientedalong the longitudinal dimension of the component with alignment normalor perpendicular to that dimension also possible. The fibers may be ofuniform or random length, unidirectional or multidirectional, orrandomly dispersed, and may be as short as about 3 to about 4millimeters (mm) or shorter. The fibers may also be in the form offabric as set forth in copending Ser. No. 09/280,760 filed Mar. 29, 1999and may include any of the attributes of the post described therein, thecontents all of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Due to theimproved structural integrity, the amount of fibers in the structuralcomponent preferably equals at least about 20% by weight (wt %) andpreferably about 20 wt % to about 70 wt %. Possible reinforcing fibers,which are preferably used in accordance with U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,717,341and 4,894,012 to Goldberg et al. (which are herein incorporated byreference), include glass, ceramic, metal, carbon, graphite, polymericsuch as cellulose, polyamide, aramid, polyester, polyaramid, acrylic,vinyl and modacrylic, polyolefm, polytetrafluorethylene, mixturesthereof, as well as other fibers known in the art. One preferred versionof the device is comprised of unidirectional microfilamentous glassfibers bundled in a resin matrix.

[0041] In order to enhance the bond between the fibers and polymericmatrix, thereby enhancing the reinforcing effect, the fibers may besilanized or otherwise treated such as by grafting functional monomersor by surface modification by corona, high voltage flame or plasmatreatment, to obtain proper coupling between the fibers and the resinmatrix. Silanization renders the fibers hydrophobic, reducing the watersorption and improving the hydrolytic stability of the compositematerial, renders the fibers organophilic, improving wetting and mixing,and bonds the fibers to the polymeric matrix. Typical silane is A-174(p-methacrylate propyl tri-methoxy silane), produced by OSI Specialties,New York.

[0042] The polymeric matrix is selected from those known in the art ofdental materials, including, but not limited to, polyamides, polyester,polyolefins, polyimides, polyarylates, polyurethanes, vinyl esters orepoxy-based materials, styrenes, styrene acrylonitriles, ABS polymers,polysulfones, polyacetals, polycarbonates, polyphenylene sulfides,polyarylsulfides, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers,polyurethane dimethacrylates (hereinafter abbreviated to PUDMA), and thelike. Preferred polymeric matrix materials include those based onacrylic and methacrylic monomers, for example those disclosed in U.S.Pat. Nos. 3,066,112, 3,179,623, and 3,194,784 to Bowen; U.S. Pat. Nos.3,751,399 and 3,926,906 to Lee et al.; and commonly assigned U.S. Pat.Nos. 5,276,068 to Waknine (which are herein incorporated by reference).An especially preferred methacrylate monomer is the condensation productof bisphenol A and glycidyl methacrylate, 2,2′-bis[4-(3-methacryloxy-2-hydroxy propoxy)-phenyl]-propane (hereinafterabbreviated“BIS-GMA”).

[0043] The polymer matrix, which typically includes polymerizationinitiators, polymerization accelerators, ultra-violet light absorbers,anti-oxidants, fluorescent whitening agents, free radical initiators,and/or other additives well known in the art, may be visible lightcurable, self-curing, dual curing, or vacuum, heat, or pressure curablecompositions, as well as any combination thereof. Heat and pressure orvacuum curable compositions include a heat cure initiator such asbenzoyl peroxide, 1,1′-azobis(cyclohexanecarbo-nitrile) or other freeradical initiators. The preferred polymeric matrix is a light and heatcurable matrix, wherein light effects partial cure of the polymermatrix, while final curing is by heat under controlled atmosphere.

[0044] Fillers may be present in addition to or instead of fibers in anamount up to about 80 wt %, and preferably about 70 wt %. If fibers arepresent, the amount of filler is present in an amount of up to about 30wt % of one or more fillers known in the art and used in dentalrestorative materials. Suitable fillers include those capable of beingcovalently bonded to the polymeric matrix itself or to a coupling agentthat is covalently bonded to both. Fillers include silica, silicateglass, quartz, barium silicate, strontium silicate, barium borosilicate,strontium borosilicate, borosilicate, lithium silicate, amorphoussilica, ammoniated or deammoniated calcium phosphate and alumina,zirconia, tin oxide, and titania, among other conventional fillers suchas those disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,544,359 and4,547,531 to Waknine (which are incorporated herein by reference), whilepossible coupling agents include silanes, zirconates, and titanates. Ifthe post is manufactured from a composite material, it is preferably incompletely cured or hardened state. However, some uncured residualmonomers may be still present in the hardened post.

[0045] Examples of metals useful as post section 11 include but are notlimited to metals or alloys of Pd, Pt, Rh, Ir, Au, Ag, Ti, Co, Mo andmixtures thereof such as AgPd, AuPtPd, TiAlFe, TiAlV,CoCrMo, stainlesssteel and brass. Ceramic materials useful in the fabrication of postsection 11 include but are not limited to alumina, zirconia, mullite,spinel, porcelain, titania, lithium disilicate, leucite, amorphousglass, lithium phosphate, and combinations thereof, or any high strengthceramic material which can withstand the stresses created in the mouth.

[0046] In accordance with one method of manufacture herein, post section11 (which includes main body 12 and carrier 13) is manufactured by anyknown method in the art and depending upon the material used for themanufacture of post section 11. Such methods include but are not limitedto matched die processes, autoclave molding, resin injection molding(RIM), sheet, dough and bulk molding, press molding, injection molding,reaction injection molding, resin transfer molding (RTM), compressionmolding, open molding, hand rolling, dipping and rolling, pressing,extrusion, pultrusion and filament winding. As discussed above, postsection 11 is formed into a rod-shaped unit or main body 12 having avery fine or thin apical end or carrier 13. The final shape of postsection 11 may be formed simultaneously during the manufacturing processthereof. Alternatively, a rod shaped material may be manufactured andthereafter shaped by grinding, cutting, milling or the like into thedesired shape and size. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, post section 11 is arod-shaped component having a main body 12 comprising slightly taperedstepped sections 16, all of the same dimensions and whereby one end ofpost section 11 comprises a very narrow section, 13, which acts as thecarrier for the filling material. As with sections 16, carrier 13 may beformed during the actual manufacture of main body 12 or thereafter bygrinding, cutting or similar means. Although main body 12 includessections 16 to aid in the retention of the post in the canal, main body12 may be of any surface (e.g., smooth, partly smooth, partlyfrustoconical, longitudinal or circular grooves) and shape suitable forplacement in the canal such as in the case of smaller diameter postswhereby the ledges may be eliminated so as to maintain the structuralintegrity pi and strength of the post. Carrier 13 preferably comprises asmooth surface, although it is in no way limited to such and may be ofany surface suitable for application of filling material thereon. Thepost may be provided in an opaque tooth color or it may be coloredsimilar to a tooth's pulp for enhanced esthetics. The post may includean appropriate amount of raadiopaque material such as titanium oxide,bismuth oxychloride, barium sulfate, and similar materials known in thedental industry to insure x-ray documentation which may be added to thepost material during manufacture thereof.

[0047] After post section 11 has been manufactured, carrier 13 of postsection 11 is then coated with a filling material such as gutta perchato obtain cone section 14 thereon. The filling material may be appliedby any known means such as dipping, injection molding, hand rolling,spraying, and the like. The filling material may be any suitablematerial used for filing root canals.

[0048] The length of post unit 10 may vary depending upon the length ofthe root into which it will be inserted. It is preferable that post 10be manufactured in a variety of lengths and widths to fit the manydifferent root canals of dental patients and the differing lengths ofthe anterior (central and lateral incisors, bicuspids and premolars) andmolar teeth. Preferably, post unit 10 is about 14 to about 31 mm inlength and more preferably about 16 to about 25 mm in length. For thelength parameter, post section 11 may be divided into three sections.Section 13 is the apical section and is about 3 to about 15 mm in lengthand preferably about 5 to about 12 mm in length. If section 13 istapered as in FIG. 2, the taper may be continuous at about 0.02 mm/permm as per ISO standard or 0.04 mm/mm or 0.06 mm/mm from the apical tip13 t to the end 13 e of carrier 13. As stated above, carrier 13 iscovered with a filling material such as a thermoplastic material whichdoes not extend more than a few mm in length past the tip of 13 (13 t).Main body 12 comprises a main section from point 13 e to point 12 mwhich is about 10 to about 25 mm in length and preferably about 12 toabout 16 mm in length, and a supracoronal portion or “head” of postsection 11 from point 12 m to point 12 h which about 5 to about 15 mmand more preferably about 8 to about 10 mm in length. The supracoronalportion of post unit 11 will be used to build a core upon which a crownwill be placed. The main section (from 13 e to 12 m) of main body 12 ofpost section 11 may be slightly flexible to negotiate curved canals.

[0049] The diameter of post section 11 will also vary and range fromabout 0.12 to about 0.25 mm at the apical end (13 t-13 e) and preferablyfrom about 0.13 to about 0.20 at the apical end (13 t-13 e). If carrier13 is tapered, the diameter at 13 t is in the range of about .12 toabout 0.25 mm and preferably about 0.13 to about 0.20 mm and thediameter at 13 e is in the range of about 0.18 to about 0.30 andpreferably about 0.20 to about 0.25 mm. At the supracoronal end, thediameter is about 0.4 to about 2.0 and preferably about 0.5 to about1.75 mm.

[0050] Tip section 14 comprising the filling material is about 0.5 to 1mm longer than carrier 13, but the diameter of tip section 14 is taperedfrom point 14 e to point 14 t in accordance with ISO standards tocorrespond to current obturating techniques utilizing master cones ofthermoplastic material. Accordingly, tip section 14 can be tapered atleast 0.02 mm/per mm in accordance with ISO standards, and preferably0.02, 0.04 or 0.06 mm/per mm, or greater, measuring from tip 14 t to 14e, for insertion into canals created with 0.02, 0.04., 0.06, or greater,tapered files. The diameter of tip 14 at point 14 e is in the range ofabout 0.30 to about 2.0 mm and preferably 0.35 to about 1.5 mm. Thediameter of tip 14 at point 14 t is in the range of about 0.20 to about1.0 mm and preferably about 0.25 to about 0.80 mm. When using the postunit in canals of 0.02 taper, the filling material such as thermoplasticmaterial will be compressed by the canal and forced toward the coronalend of the canal. This will result in an apical seal in excess of 8 mm.The excess thermoplastic material can be removed with a heatedinstrument after it has hardened. When using the post unit in 0.06tapered canals, the filling material can be condensed down toward theapex to fill the void created by the greater taper. This will result inan apical seal less than 8 mm, but in excess of 4 mm which is sufficientto maintain the apical seal.

[0051] To use the post unit, the device is placed in or near an oven orheater to heat and soften the filling material or dipped in a chemicalsolution such as chloroform to soften the filling material.Alternatively, the post is not heated or softened and is instead placedin its hardened state. The device will then be placed in a root canalthat has been opened to a predetermined dimension by use of endodonticfiles, to seal the apical end. If necessary, the gutta percha can becompacted toward the apex, while it is still in the softened state, toensure the apex is adequately sealed. The post is then cemented intoplace by lining the canal walls with a bonding agent and filling theinterface between the post and the walls of the canal with a resincement, such as a dual cure cement. This will result in a coronal sealof the canal via resin restorative material and an apical seal of thecanal by means of gutta percha and sealant. The remaining portion of thepost, extending supra-gingivally, will be used to build a core aroundit, and if necessary, for placement of a crown thereon. Any excess ofthe post will be cut off. One length of the device will be longer toaccommodate the longer roots in anterior teeth. Another length will beshorter to accommodate smaller roots in the molar region.

[0052]FIG. 3 shows a root canal 30 with post unit 32 therein. Post unit32 comprises a post section 33 having a main body 34 and a carrier 36that carries the filling material 38. As shown in FIG. 3, thethermoplastic material 38 was softened prior to insertion and fills theapex of the canal.

[0053] In an alternate embodiment herein, reference is made to FIG. 4wherein a post unit 40 comprises a post section 42 fabricated of fiberreinforced composite material wherein the fibers comprise optical fibers44 such as glass fibers or a central core of a material such as metalwhich is able to transmit heat energy to the filling material. Glassfibers 44 extend out through post section 42 into carrier 46 and tipsection 48. To use the post unit 40, the filling material 48 does nothave to be softened or heated prior to insertion into the canal. Postunit 40 is inserted into the canal with tip 48 in its hardened state. Acuring light or other heat source is applied to the coronal portion ofthe post, transmitting light or heat down toward the apex. Fibers 44convert the light into heat or, alternatively, the core sectiontransmits heat to the filling material. The heat then plasticizes thefilling material such as gutta percha at the apex. The post is thenpushed toward the apex using gentle finger pressure. This last stepinsures that the plasticized gutta percha is compressed apically andlaterally, sealing the tooth and any lateral canals.

[0054] One of the benefits of this alternative embodiment is that itinsures plasticized gutta percha is only introduced to the apicalportion of the root and that the coronal portion of the root is free ofgutta percha which could negatively affect the retentive strength of thepost and core.

[0055] In yet another embodiment herein, reference is made to FIG. 5wherein a post unit 50 comprises a post section 52 fabricated of fiberreinforced composite material. Post section 52 includes main body 54 andcarrier 56. Carrier 56 is coated with a filling material such as guttapercha to obtain cone section 58 thereon. As shown in the drawing, mainbody 54 is tapered to provide ease of placement into the canal. Thecross-section of post unit 50 may be smaller than the cross-section of astandard post to fit in thinner or smaller auxiliary canals which arenormally filled with a thermoplastic material. Accordingly, post unit 50can act as an obturator. As an obturator, better support is provided dueto the fiber-reinforced composite structural component 54 upon whichcone section 58 is applied in comparison to using only a thermoplasticmaterial as an obturator. Moreover, the obturator may be easily cementedin place in the canal. The size of post unit 50 is about 15 to about 35mm in length with a diameter in the range of about 1.0 to about 1.75 mm.The taper of the post unit is about 0.02 to about 0.06 mm/per mm.Although carrier section 56 is shown as being tapered, it may also be ofconstant diameter. Post unit 50 may also include a handle 60 which isbeneficial when the post unit is used as an obturator. Section 54 ofunit 50 within handle 60 may be tapered or straight. Handle 60 may beany filled or unfilled polymeric material, such as those mentioned aboveand used in the fabrication of the post. The handle may be colored todistinguish between the different sizes.

[0056] In yet a further embodiment herein, the post or obturator maycomprise a protrusion or a depression on the tip section of the devicein order to assist in the attachment of the filler cone to the tip orshaft section. The protrusions and depressions may be in any shape orform including but not limited to spherical, cylindrical, rectangular,oval, and semi-spherical forms. The protrusions and depressions may becomprised of a single protrusion or depression on the tip section or maybe comprised of a series of two or more protrusions or depressionsdisposed uniformly or randomly along the length of the tip section.

[0057] Reference is hereby made to FIG. 6, which shows post 70 having apost section 72. As stated above, post section 72 may be fabricated ofany known post materials not limited to the aforementioned materialsdescribed herein and is preferably fabricated of fiber reinforcedcomposite material. Post section 72 includes main body 74 and carrier76. Carrier 76 is coated with a filling material such as gutta percha toobtain filler cone section 78 thereon. As shown in the drawing, postsection 72 is slightly tapered as is filler cone section 78 to provideease of placement into the canal. Carrier 76 includes a protrusion inthe form of a sphere 80, which protrudes annularly around carrier 76.The cross-section of post 70 may be smaller than the cross-section of astandard post to fit in thinner or smaller auxiliary canals which arenormally filled with a thermoplastic material.

[0058]FIG. 7 is directed to an obturator 100 having a carrier 102 andfilling material disposed thereon in the form of a filler cone 104.Carrier 102 includes a handle section 106 and a tip or shaft section108. A protrusion in the form of a sphere 110 is disposed on shaftsection 108 for retaining filler cone 104 thereon. As shown in FIG. 7,shaft section 108 does not extend the length of the filler cone 104.FIG. 8 shows an alternate obturator 120 having a carrier 122 and fillingmaterial disposed thereon in the form of a filler cone 124. Carrier 122includes a handle section 126 and a tip or shaft section 128 forretaining filler cone 124 thereon. A protrusion in the form of a sphere130 is disposed on shaft section 128 for retaining filler cone 124thereon. As shown in FIG. 8, shaft section 128 extends the length offiller cone 124. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the shaftsection as well as the carrier section may vary in length and width.

[0059]FIG. 9 shows an alternative embodiment herein. FIG. 9 representsan obuturator 140 having a plurality of protrusions in the shape ofspheres 142 extending outwardly on shaft section 144. The carrier of theobturator may be made of any material used in the industry suitable forcarriers including the above-mentioned materials used in the fabricationof the posts.

[0060]FIGS. 10 and 11 show more representations of the invention withobturators 150 and 160, respectively, having carriers 152 and 162,respectively, and handles 154 and 164, respectively. Carriers 152 and162 include protrusions 156 and 166, respectively for retaining fillercones 158 and 168, respectively, thereon.

[0061]FIGS. 12 through 15 show alternate embodiments of posts andobturators herein. FIG. 12 shows a post 170 having a rigid endodonticsection which is in the form of a shaft 172 and an apical tip section inthe form of a filler cone 173. An opening 174 extends through shaft 172.Although opening 174 extends the entire length of shaft 172 in FIG. 12,it is possible that the opening not extend the entire length of shaft172, but only a portion of shaft 172 as shown as opening 181 in post 180of FIG. 13 or alternatively as opening 191 in post 190 of FIG. 14.Openings 181 and 191 extend between about one-third to about one-quarterthe length of shafts 182 and 192 of posts 180 and 190, respectively,although there is not limitation on how long or short the opening canbe. It is preferable that openings 174,181 and 191 extend centrallythrough shafts 172, 182 and 192. As seen in FIG. 14, opening 191 isundercut in shaft 192 on an angle which increases in width from theapical point toward the coronal end of the post. This is provided toshow that the opening in the shaft is not limited to any size, shape ordesign, but may be of any form to achieve the design of the post orobturator having an integral filler cone in accordance with theinvention herein. Openings 174, 181 and 191 of FIGS. 12 through 14 arefilled with a filling material, such as any known material for fillingroot canals, including but not limited to the materials mentionedherein, to form post interiors or core sections 175, 183 and 193 of theposts in FIGS. 12 through 14, respectively. The filling material extendsout of the apical ends of shafts 172, 182 and 192 in FIGS. 12 through14, respectively, to form filler cones 173, 184 and 194 in FIGS. 12through 14, respectively. Posts 170, 180 and 190 may be manufactured byfirst forming a hollow tube or partially hollow/partially solid tube(shafts 182 and 192) fabricated of any known post material, includingbut not limited to the materials mentioned herein. Alternatively, shafts172, 182 and 192 may be formed as solid rods which are then machined,drilled, cut or modified by other similar known means to provideopenings 174, 181 and 191, respectively. The shaft is then attached to afiller cone mold and a filling material is inserted or injected into theopening and the filler cone mold by any known means, such as, forexample, by injection, to form the post core and filler cone. Thefilling material is cured to form a post having a hardened filler coneintegrally attached thereto. The filler cone mold is then removed toprovide a post and hardened cone integrally attached thereto. FIG. 15 isa top plan view of FIG. 12 showing the top of post 170 with shaft 172,opening 174 and core section 175.

[0062]FIGS. 16 and 17 show alternate embodiments of obturators 200 and210 having carriers 201 and 211, which may be tapered. The carriers haveopenings 202 and 212 which extend therethrough. Opening 202 of carrier201 extends the length of carrier 201 and opening 212 of carrier 211extends only a portion of the length of carrier 211. Openings 202 and212 are filled with a filling material, such as any known material forfilling root canals, including but not limited to the materialsmentioned herein, to form an obturator interior or core section 203 and213, which filling material extends out of the apical ends of carriers201 and 211 to form filler cones 204 and 214. Obturators 200 and 210 maybe manufactured in the same way as posts 170, 180 and 190 describedabove, by first forming a tapered shaft or carrier fabricated of anyknown post material, including but not limited to the materialsmentioned herein. The shafts are then attached to a filler cone mold anda filling material is inserted into the tunnel and the filler cone moldto form the obturator core and filler cone. The filling material iscured to form a hardened obturator having a hardened filler coneintegrally attached thereto. FIG. 18 is a top plan view of FIG. 16showing the top of obturator 200 with carrier 201, opening 202 and coresection 203.

[0063]FIGS. 19 through 21 show yet more alternative embodiments herein.Posts 220 and 230 in FIGS. 19 and 20 show filler cones 221 and 231,respectively, flush with the perimeters of shafts 222 and 232,respectively, at the end of the filler cone that is in contact with theshaft, i.e., the perimeter of the top end of the filler cone is flushwith (same as) the perimeter of the bottom end of the shaft. FIG. 21shows obturator 240 having filler cone 241 flush with the perimeter ofcarrier 242 at the end of the filler cone that is in contact with thecarrier, i.e., the perimeter of the top end of the filler cone is flushwith (same as) the perimeter of the bottom end of the carrier. Each ofthe posts or obturators have an opening in the shaft or carrier forfilling material to be injected, which filling material will extend outof the apical end to form the filler cone. The materials and methods ofmanufacture are the same as mentioned herein for the other embodimentsand designs.

[0064] In using the posts and obturators described herein, the canal iscleaned and prepared by the dentist. The dentist may or may not softenthe filler cone prior to insertion in the canal. The post or obturatoris inserted into the canal. Any excess in length of the post orobturator may be trimmed off by the dentist.

[0065] While various descriptions of the present invention are describedabove, it should be understood that the various features can be usedsingly or in any combination thereof. Therefore, this invention is notto be limited to only the specifically preferred embodiments depictedherein. Further, it should be understood that variations andmodifications within the spirit and scope of the invention may occur tothose skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. Accordingly,all expedient modifications readily attainable by one versed in the artfrom the disclosure set forth herein that are within the scope andspirit of the present invention are to be included as furtherembodiments of the present invention. The scope of the present inventionis accordingly defined as set forth in the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An endodontic post comprising: a post section,the post section comprising a rigid endodontic section and a tipsection; wherein the tip section is a flexible carrier surrounded by afiller cone; and wherein the tip section comprises one or moreprotrusions extending outwardly from the tip section for engaging thefiller cone.
 2. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein the flexiblecarrier is integral to the post section.
 3. The endodontic post of claim1 wherein the post section comprises an apical portion and an endodonticportion and wherein the apical portion comprises the flexible carrier.4. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein the flexible carrier extendsapproximately the full length of the filler cone.
 5. The endodontic postof claim 1 wherein the flexible carrier extends a portion of the lengthof the filler cone.
 6. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein the one ormore protrusions extending outwardly from the tip section comprise asingle protrusion disposed annularly at a point around the tip section.7. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein the one or more protrusionsextending outwardly from the tip section comprise a series ofprotrusions disposed at various points along the length of the tipsection.
 8. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein the one or moreprotrusions are selected from the shape consisting of spherical,cylindrical, rectangular, ovoid, and semi-spherical.
 9. The endodonticpost of claim 3 wherein the apical portion of the post is narrower indiameter than the diameter of the endodontic portion.
 10. The endodonticpost of claim 3 wherein the post further comprises a supracoronalportion.
 11. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein the post section isfabricated of metal, plastic, composite, ceramic, glass or polymericmaterial.
 12. The endodontic post of claim 11 wherein the polymericmaterial is selected from the group consisting of thermoplastic,thermoset, chemoplastic resins and mixtures thereof.
 13. The endodonticpost of claim 11 wherein the composite material comprises fiberreinforced composite material.
 14. The endodontic post of claim 11wherein the composite material comprises filler reinforced compositematerial.
 15. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein the filler conecomprises a thermoplastic or chemoplastic material.
 16. The endodonticpost of claim 1 wherein the filler cone comprises a resinous material.17. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein the filler cone comprisesgutta percha.
 18. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein the filler conecomprises polyacrylate, polyurethane, polypropylene, polyethylene,polyamide, fluoropolymer, polyester, polyphosphazene, polyanhydride,polysulfide, polyether, epoxy, polycarbonate, polystyrene,polybutadiene, polyphenylene oxide, silicone rubber or a mixturethereof.
 19. The endodontic post of claim 18 wherein the polyacrylatecomprises polymethyl methacrylate, polyhydroxy ethyl methacrylate, orhydroxy ethyl methacrylate (HEMA).
 20. The endodontic post of claim 18wherein the fluoropolymer comprises Teflon® PTFE or Teflon® PFA.
 21. Theendodontic post of claim 18 wherein the wherein the polyester comprisespolylactic acid, glycolide, polycaprolactone or a co-polymer thereof.22. The endodontic post of claim 18 wherein the silicone rubbercomprises polysiloxane.
 23. The endodontic post of claim 1 wherein thefiller cone comprises polylactides, polyglycolides, polycaprolactones,polyanhydrides, polyamides, polyurethanes, polyesteramides,polyorthoesters, polydioxanones, polyacetals, polyketals,polycarbonates, polyorthocarbonates, polyphosphazenes,polyhydroxybutyrates, polyhydroxyvalerates, polyalkylene oxalates,polyethylene oxides, polyacrylates/methacrylates, polyalkylenesuccinates, poly(malic acid) polymers, polymaleic anhydrides,poly(methylvinyl) ethers, poly(amino acids), chitin, chitosan, andcopolymers, terpolymers, or combinations or mixtures thereof.
 24. Theendodontic post of claim 16 wherein the filler cone further comprises aplasticizing agent, antibiotic agent, cariostatic agent, antibacterialagent, anti-inflammatory agent, biologically active agent, ortherapeutic agent, or mixtures thereof.
 25. A device for filling a rootcanal comprising: a carrier; and a filler cone; wherein the filler coneis disposed on the carrier; wherein the carrier comprises a rigid handlesection and a tip section; wherein the tip section is a flexible sectionsurrounded by the filler cone; and wherein the tip section comprises oneor more protrusions extending outwardly from the tip section forengaging the filler cone.
 26. The device for filling a root canal ofclaim 25 wherein the flexible tip section is integral to the carrier.27. The device for filling a root canal of claim 25 wherein the flexiblesection extends approximately the full length of the filler cone. 28.The device for filling a root canal of claim 25 wherein the flexiblesection extends a portion of the length of the filler cone.
 29. Thedevice for filling a root canal of claim 25 wherein the one or moreprotrusions extending outwardly from the tip section comprise a singleprotrusion extending annularly at a point around the tip section. 30.The device for filling a root canal of claim 25 wherein the one or moreprotrusions extending outwardly from the tip section comprise a seriesof protrusions disposed at various points along the length of the tipsection.
 31. The device for filling a root canal of claim 25 wherein theone or more protrusions are selected from the shape consisting ofspherical, cylindrical, rectangular, ovoid, and semi-spherical.
 32. Thedevice for filling a root canal of claim 25 flexible tip section isnarrower in diameter than the handle section.
 33. The device for fillinga root canal of claim 25 wherein the carrier is fabricated of metal,plastic, composite, ceramic, glass or polymeric material.
 34. The devicefor filling a root canal of claim 33 wherein the polymeric material isselected from the group consisting of thermoplastic, thermoset,chemoplastic resins and mixtures thereof.
 35. The device for filling aroot canal of claim 33 wherein the composite material comprises fiberreinforced composite material.
 36. The device for filling a root canalof claim 33 wherein the composite material comprises filler reinforcedcomposite material.
 37. The device for filling a root canal of claim 25wherein the filler cone comprises a thermoplastic or chemoplasticmaterial.
 38. The device for filling a root canal of claim 25 whereinthe filler cone comprises a resinous material.
 39. The device forfilling a root canal of claim 25 wherein the filler cone comprises guttapercha.
 40. The device for filling a root canal of claim 25 wherein thefiller cone comprises polyacrylate, polyurethane, polypropylene,polyethylene, polyamide, fluoropolymer, polyester, polyphosphazene,polyanhydride, polysulfide, polyether, epoxy, polycarbonate,polystyrene, polybutadiene, polyphenylene oxide, silicone rubber or amixture thereof.
 41. The device for filling a root canal of claim 40wherein the polyacrylate comprises polymethyl methacrylate, polyhydroxyethyl methacrylate, or hydroxy ethyl methacrylate (HEMA).
 42. The devicefor filling a root canal of claim 40 wherein the fluoropolymer comprisesTeflon® PTFE or Teflon® PFA.
 43. The device for filling a root canal ofclaim 40 the wherein the polyester comprises polylactic acid, glycolide,polycaprolactone or a co-polymer thereof.
 44. The device for filling aroot canal of claim 40 wherein the silicone rubber comprisespolysiloxane.
 45. The device for filling a root canal of claim 25wherein the filler cone comprises polylactides, polyglycolides,polycaprolactones, polyanhydrides, polyamides, polyurethanes,polyesteramides, polyorthoesters, polydioxanones, polyacetals,polyketals, polycarbonates, polyorthocarbonates, polyphosphazenes,polyhydroxybutyrates, polyhydroxyvalerates, polyalkylene oxalates,polyethylene oxides, polyacrylates/methacrylates, polyalkylenesuccinates, poly(malic acid) polymers, polymaleic anhydrides,poly(methylvinyl) ethers, poly(amino acids), chitin, chitosan, andcopolymers, terpolymers, or combinations or mixtures thereof.
 46. Thedevice for filling a root canal of claim 38 wherein the filler conefurther comprises a plasticizing agent, antibiotic agent, cariostaticagent, antibacterial agent, anti-inflammatory agent, biologically activeagent, or therapeutic agent, or mixtures thereof.
 47. An endodontic postcomprising: a post section, the post section comprising a rigidendodontic section and a tip section; wherein the tip section issurrounded by a filler cone; and wherein the tip section comprises oneor more protrusions extending outwardly from the tip section forengaging the filler cone.
 48. The endodontic post of claim 47 whereinthe tip section is integral to the post section.
 49. The endodontic postof claim 47 wherein the tip section extends approximately the fulllength of the filler cone.
 50. The endodontic post of claim 47 whereinthe tip section extends a portion of the length of the filler cone. 51.The endodontic post of claim 47 wherein the one or more protrusionsextending outwardly from the tip section comprise a single protrusiondisposed annularly at a point around the tip section.
 52. The endodonticpost of claim 47 wherein the one or more protrusions extending outwardlyfrom the tip section comprise a series of protrusions or depressionsdisposed at various points along the length of the tip section.
 53. Theendodontic post of claim 47 wherein the one or more protrusions areselected from the shape consisting of spherical, cylindrical,rectangular, ovoid, and semi-spherical.
 54. The endodontic post of claim47 wherein the post section is fabricated of metal, plastic, composite,ceramic, glass or polymeric material.
 55. The endodontic post of claim54 wherein the polymeric material is selected from the group consistingof thermoplastic, thermoset, chemoplastic resins and mixtures thereof.56. The endodontic post of claim 54 wherein the composite materialcomprises fiber reinforced composite material.
 57. The endodontic postof claim 54 wherein the composite material comprises filler reinforcedcomposite material.
 58. The endodontic post of claim 47 wherein thefiller cone comprises a thermoplastic or chemoplastic material.
 59. Theendodontic post of claim 47 wherein the filler cone comprises a resinousmaterial.
 60. The endodontic post of claim 47 wherein the filler conecomprises gutta percha.
 61. The endodontic post of claim 47 wherein thefiller cone comprises polyacrylate, polyurethane, polypropylene,polyethylene, polyamide, fluoropolymer, polyester, polyphosphazene,polyanhydride, polysulfide, polyether, epoxy, polycarbonate,polystyrene, polybutadiene, polyphenylene oxide, silicone rubber or amixture thereof.
 62. The endodontic post of claim 61 wherein thepolyacrylate comprises polymethyl methacrylate, polyhydroxy ethylmethacrylate, or hydroxy ethyl methacrylate (HEMA).
 63. The endodonticpost of claim 61 wherein the fluoropolymer comprises Teflon® PTFE orTeflon® PFA.
 64. The endodontic post of claim 61 wherein the wherein thepolyester comprises polylactic acid, glycolide, polycaprolactone or aco-polymer thereof.
 64. The endodontic post of claim 61 wherein thesilicone rubber comprises polysiloxane.
 65. The endodontic post of claim47 wherein the filler cone comprises polylactides, polyglycolides,polycaprolactones, polyanhydrides, polyamides, polyurethanes,polyesteramides, polyorthoesters, polydioxanones, polyacetals,polyketals, polycarbonates, polyorthocarbonates, polyphosphazenes,polyhydroxybutyrates, polyhydroxyvalerates, polyalkylene oxalates,polyethylene oxides, polyacrylates/methacrylates, polyalkylenesuccinates, poly(malic acid) polymers, polymaleic anhydrides,poly(methylvinyl) ethers, poly(amino acids), chitin, chitosan, andcopolymers, terpolymers, or combinations or mixtures thereof.
 66. Theendodontic post of claim 59 wherein the filler cone further comprises aplasticizing agent, antibiotic agent, cariostatic agent, antibacterialagent, anti-inflammatory agent, biologically active agent, ortherapeutic agent, or mixtures thereof.
 67. A device for filling a rootcanal comprising: a carrier; and a filler cone; wherein the filler coneis disposed on the carrier; wherein the carrier comprises a rigid handlesection and a tip section; wherein the tip section is surrounded by thefiller cone; and wherein the tip section comprises one or moreprotrusions extending outwardly from the tip section for engaging thefiller cone.
 68. The device for filling a root canal of claim 67 whereinthe tip section is integral to the carrier.
 69. The device for filling aroot canal of claim 67 wherein the tip section extends approximately thefull length of the filler cone.
 70. The device for filling a root canalof claim 67 wherein the tip section extends a portion of the length ofthe filler cone.
 71. The device for filling a root canal of claim 67wherein the one or more protrusions extending outwardly from the tipsection comprise a single protrusion extending annularly at a pointaround the tip section.
 72. The device for filling a root canal of claim67 wherein the one or more protrusions extending outwardly from the tipsection comprise a series of protrusions disposed at various pointsalong the length of the tip section.
 73. The device for filling a rootcanal of claim 67 wherein the one or more protrusions are selected fromthe shape consisting of spherical, cylindrical, rectangular, ovoid, andsemi-spherical.
 74. The device for filling a root canal of claim 67wherein the tip section is narrower in diameter than the handle section.75. The device for filling a root canal of claim 67 wherein the carrieris fabricated of metal, plastic, composite, ceramic, glass or polymericmaterial.
 76. The device for filling a root canal of claim 75 whereinthe polymeric material is selected from the group consisting ofthermoplastic, thermoset, chemoplastic resins and mixtures thereof. 77.The device for filling a root canal of claim 75 wherein the compositematerial comprises fiber reinforced composite material.
 78. The devicefor filling a root canal of claim 75 wherein the composite materialcomprises filler reinforced composite material.
 79. The device forfilling a root canal of claim 67 wherein the filler cone comprises athermoplastic or chemoplastic material.
 80. The device for filling aroot canal of claim 67 wherein the filler cone comprises a resinousmaterial.
 81. The device for filling a root canal of claim 67 whereinthe filler cone comprises gutta percha.
 82. The device for filling aroot canal of claim 67 wherein the filler cone comprises polyacrylate,polyurethane, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, fluoropolymer,polyester, polyphosphazene, polyanhydride, polysulfide, polyether,epoxy, polycarbonate, polystyrene, polybutadiene, polyphenylene oxide,silicone rubber or a mixture thereof.
 83. The device for filling a rootcanal of claim 82 wherein the polyacrylate comprises polymethylmethacrylate, polyhydroxy ethyl methacrylate, or hydroxy ethylmethacrylate (HEMA).
 84. The device for filling a root canal of claim 82wherein the fluoropolymer comprises Teflon® PTFE or Teflon® PFA.
 85. Thedevice for filling a root canal of claim 82 the wherein the polyestercomprises polylactic acid, glycolide, polycaprolactone or a co-polymerthereof.
 86. The device for filling a root canal of claim 82 wherein thesilicone rubber comprises polysiloxane.
 87. The device for filling aroot canal of claim 67 wherein the filler cone comprises polylactides,polyglycolides, polycaprolactones, polyanhydrides, polyamides,polyurethanes, polyesteramides, polyorthoesters, polydioxanones,polyacetals, polyketals, polycarbonates, polyorthocarbonates,polyphosphazenes, polyhydroxybutyrates, pblyhydroxyvalerates,polyalkylene oxalates, polyethylene oxides, polyacrylates/methacrylates,polyalkylene succinates, poly(malic acid) polymers, polymaleicanhydrides, poly(methylvinyl) ethers, poly(amino acids), chitin,chitosan, and copolymers, terpolymers, or combinations or mixturesthereof.
 88. The device for filling a root canal of claim 80 wherein thefiller cone further comprises a plasticizing agent, antibiotic agent,cariostatic agent, antibacterial agent, anti-inflammatory agent,biologically active agent, or therapeutic agent, or mixtures thereof.89. A method for restoring the root canal of a tooth comprising:preparing the root canal; providing a post for insertion into the canal,whereby the post comprises a post section, wherein the post sectioncomprises a rigid endodontic section and a tip section, wherein the tipsection is surrounded by a filler cone, and wherein the tip sectioncomprises one or more protrusions extending outwardly from the tipsection for engaging the filler cone; and inserting the post into thecanal, whereby the root canal is filled by the filler cone.
 90. Themethod of claim 89 wherein the filler cone is softened prior toinsertion of the post into the canal.
 91. The method of claim 89 furthercomprising injecting a sealing material into the canal to bond the postto the canal prior to insertion of the post into the canal.
 92. Themethod of claim 89 further comprising building a core on an end of thepost that extends from the canal.
 93. The method of claim 92 furthercomprising placing a crown on the core.
 94. The method of claim 89wherein the tip section is a flexible carrier.
 95. A method forrestoring the root canal of a tooth comprising: preparing the rootcanal; providing a device for filling a root canal whereby the devicecomprises a carrier and a filler cone, wherein the filler cone isdisposed on the carrier, wherein the carrier comprises a rigid handlesection and a tip section; wherein the tip section is surrounded by thefiller cone; and wherein the tip section comprises one or moreprotrusions extending outwardly from tip section for engaging the fillercone; and inserting the carrier into the canal, whereby the root canalis filled by the filler cone; and removing the handle and carriersection from the filler cone.
 96. The method of claim 95 wherein thefiller cone is softened prior to insertion of the carrier into thecanal.
 97. The method of claim 95 further comprising inserting a sealingmaterial into the canal to bond the filler cone to the canal prior toinsertion of the carrier into the canal.
 98. The method of claim 95further comprising filling the tooth with composite material to completethe process.
 99. The method of claim 95 wherein the tip section is aflexible section.